Traditional symbolism and modern retail flair take centre stage at a unique ‘pop-up’ festive celebration.
The Lunar New Year traditionally marks a time of unity; bringing a reunion of family members, the strengthening of bonds between individuals and the sharing of common joy for the occasion. It is also a time of renewal and revival, as the New Year represents a new cycle of the seasons and an opportunity to make a fresh start.
This was the festive spirit that Bӧn Estates tapped into when it hosted a colourfully vibrant Pop-up Party at the Bӧn Estates Gallery in Bangsar this weekend, setting the pace for the Chinese New Year season with an event that featured traditional entertainment, appetising delights, and an exciting shopping experience in the atmosphere of a lively bazaar.
Hosting such an event for the third consecutive year since its inception, the cultural festivities at the Bӧn Estates gallery have been known for their eclectic blend of traditional feel and modern flair. This year, the company chose to pay special tribute to the “Power of the Circle”, representing the cycle of seasons and the rebirth of a fresh new year.
This was brought to life with a theme of the powerful symbolism from traditional Chinese culture and inspired by the influence of nature in our lives.
For example, the image of a circle not only represents the cycle of seasons, but also a new moon and the renewal of life. The symbol of a pine tree represents integrity and longevity, the Peony flower is a symbol of prosperity, while the plum tree represents good fortune.
From the animal kingdom, the fish is a strong symbol of wealth, while the crane has long been known as the symbol of happiness, eternal youth, and longevity.
These images, combined with auspicious colours of the season and Bӧn Estates’ trademark blue, not only provided the backdrop for the event, but they were also depicted in the company’s uniquely designed “collector’s edition” Ang Pow packets, which were given to customers, special guests, and stakeholders who attended the festivities.
In welcoming guests to the gallery, and thanking them for their support over the years, Bӧn Estates Managing Director Goh Soo Sing said that the Lunar New Year brings people together in the spirit of celebration, tradition, culture, and mutual hope for a brighter future.
“There is a special place in our hearts for celebrations such as this because Bӧn Estates recognises the immense power it wields in bringing people together in unity and harmony,” Goh said, adding that as a builder of communities there is much to learn from the wisdom of tradition and culture.
“In our unique Malaysian context, traditional celebrations are especially significant because they reach across the spectrum of cultures that make up this colourful country. By being inclusive about our diverse cultural heritage, we invite others to share in our joy, we become united in the embrace of common principles and we strengthen our bonds as a single – albeit multiracial – community,” he added.
That spirit of “togetherness” was certainly alive and well at the Pop-up Party, as guests were brought together to share the auspiciousness of the Lau Sang, the heart-pumping excitement of a Lion Dance performance by Khuan Loke Dragon & Lion Dance Association, and even the intrigue of tea leaf reading by consultants from Soleil Trinity.
Making the Pop-up retail experience special was the participation of 17 vendors. Among them were well-known and emerging fashion and wellness brands such as Novexpert, Nanojual, Frankitas, KanoeWear, Eleven Theory, GA Girl’s Accessories, and many more.
In addition to delectable delights offered by MJ Homemade, 991 Rainbow Homemade, Snack Fun, and Big Four Happiness, delicious food for the event was prepared by Good Monster – who won over hearts and stomachs with their unique hot poke bowl dishes infused with local flavours.
In the spirit of arts and craftsmanship that is always evident at Bӧn Estates events, guests also had the opportunity to take a piece of traditional calligraphy home – courtesy of Rainbow Calligraphy.
The festivities ran from 12 noon to 6pm, on 19th January (Saturday), at Bӧn Estates’ landmark gallery, located at the corner of Bangsar’s Jalan Maarof and Jalan Penaga.
